Page 95 of Naive in Love

“A couple of years. And yes, I had a very rocky beginning. I was not raised a debutante in this town. I wasn’t accepted. But we stuck it out. You, my dear, have been, so use that advantage.”

The door opens, and a couple of women walk in. We touch up our lipstick and walk back to the table.

Ethan watches me intently as I sit down. He places his arm on the back of my chair and lets his fingers drift on my bare shoulder before coming close to my ear and whispering, “Evelyn talked to you, didn’t she?”

I barely move my head to answer, not wanting to bring attention to us.

“Are you okay?”

I answer the same.

He places a small kiss on my temple, and when he pulls back, I turn to look at him, hoping my expression relaxes him.

This secret, intimate exchange solidifies us for me. His protectiveness, passion, love, just everything about him is what I want and need. I will handle myself accordingly and stand by him through any family drama that may arise.

Dessert is served, and the conversation at the table is light and fun thanks to the wine and champagne flowing throughout the different courses. Wanting to keep my wits about me, I have been sipping on the same glass.

After the meal, everyone begins to move about the ballroom socializing. Couples make their way to the dance floor as the music begins. Ethan and I are about the head to the bar when his father comes up asking for a minute with him. Left alone, I decide to check on Lena and say hello to Preston’s parents. As I walk to their table, Chad, another Hayes cousin I went to school with, stops me.

“Sophia, it’s good to see you.” He gives me a brief hug.

“Hi, Chad. It’s nice to see you too. How are you?”

“I’m good. Dance?” He extends his hand to me. I place mine in his, letting him lead me to the floor. We stop in the middle, and he wraps his arm around me.

“So how have you been?” he begins as we dance.

“Good. Adjusting to college life.” I smile and answer pleasantly.

“I know how that is. Last year living away from home was an adjustment, especially being out of state.”

“I didn’t want to be that far away. I like San Antonio. Is this year better for you?”

“It is. So who are you here with? I saw Preston brought his new girlfriend.” Is he fishing for information? I am sure everyone has already seen me sitting with Ethan at Rick’s table.

“I’m Ethan’s date,” I answer.

“Don’t you mean my girlfriend?” Ethan says behind me.

I turn to look at him, my lips pulling out at my new title.

“May I?” he asks Chad as he extends his hand to me.

Chad tips his head and lets me go. Ethan wraps his arm protectively around my waist, his hand on my bare lower back. The skin-on-skin contact sends electric sensations throughout my body.

“Vultures coming in already?” He looks down at me smirking, then places a small kiss on my lips.

I roll my eyes. “You know I know him,” I answer sarcastically.

“Yes, I do know, but I’m sure he knew you were here with me. As much as I am trying to mend things, I’m not sure I want all this.” He lets my hand go and flicks his hand in no particular direction.

“Do what you want. I only want you.”

“You sure? I don’t want to ask this of you. And I don’t want to be without you.” His features turn serious.

“I’m positive. I’m with you no matter what.” I pause then ask, “Why are you so worried?”

“Because according to my dad, it could get ugly.”

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